Frédéric Leclercq Discusses His Evolving Role in KREATOR
In a recent conversation with Jai That Aussie Metal Guy, KREATOR bassist Frédéric Leclercq reflected on how his role in the band has developed over the past six years. Leclercq shared insights into his contributions, starting with the collaboration on the track “666 – World Divided.” Initially, his involvement was focused on rehearsing existing songs for live performances. However, with “666 – World Divided,” he began to understand the band’s dynamics, working closely with guitarist and vocalist Mille Petrozza. Leclercq noted that Petrozza typically brings the material, and the band collectively arranges it, ensuring Petrozza can perform and connect with the lyrics naturally.
Leclercq explained, “When I joined, I was proactive about music, offering suggestions and ensuring everything worked cohesively. I didn’t want to impose, but I aimed to enhance the band’s sound.” His role expanded with the album “Hate Über Alles,” where he contributed significantly to pre-production during the COVID-19 pandemic. Leclercq described his process of refining songs, editing demos, and subtly adding elements to enhance the music. He also collaborated on guitar solos, bringing new ideas to guitarist Sami Yli-Sirniö.
Upcoming Album and Tour
KREATOR’s new album, “Krushers Of The World,” is set for release on January 16, 2026, through Nuclear Blast Records. The album was recorded at Fascination Street Studios in Örebro, Sweden, with producer Jens Bogren, who previously worked on “Phantom Antichrist” (2012) and “Gods Of Violence” (2017). The cover art, designed by Zbigniew Bielak, features intricate details and occult symbolism, paying homage to KREATOR’s history.
Three singles have been released from the album: “Seven Serpents,” “Tränenpalast,” and “Satanic Anarchy.” “Tränenpalast” includes guest vocals from Britta Görtz of the band HIRAES.
KREATOR will embark on a major European tour with CARCASS, EXODUS, and NAILS, starting March 20, 2026, in Lisbon, Portugal, and concluding on April 25, 2026, in Copenhagen, Denmark. The tour will cover 20 countries with performances in cities like London, Manchester, Glasgow, Paris, Milan, Berlin, and Stockholm.
Art and Legacy
The “Krushers Of The World” cover, crafted by Zbigniew Bielak, offers a fresh take on KREATOR’s visual legacy. It incorporates elements from previous albums like “Coma Of Souls” (1990) and “Pleasure To Kill,” blending them into a detailed design rich with symbolism.
This upcoming release follows 2022’s “Hate Über Alles,” recorded at Hansa Tonstudio in Berlin with producer Arthur Rizk. “Hate Über Alles” marked Leclercq’s first album with KREATOR.
Documentary and Autobiography
KREATOR’s documentary, “Hate & Hope,” premiered at the 42nd Munich International Film Festival on July 2 and had a theatrical release on September 4. Directed by Cordula Kablitz-Post, the 110-minute film provides an in-depth look at the band.
Mille Petrozza’s autobiography, “Your Heaven, My Hell – Mein Leben, Heavy Metal Und Wie Das Alles Passieren Konnte,” co-written with Torsten Groß, was published on August 28 by Ullstein Verlag.
Photo credit: Robert Eikelpoth
